Facility Rockstars

What does it take to lead a facility team with purpose, precision, and heart?

Eric Schneider is a seasoned professional with over 40 years of experience in aerospace manufacturing and facility management. He shares his approach to solving complex problems through lean Kaizen methods, including the Five S methodology and the use of Maintenance Action Forms (MAFs) to prioritize and track facility issues.

But for Eric, it's not just about process—it's about people. He emphasizes the value of a caring, safety-conscious team and the critical role human connection plays in continuous improvement. From his early days in quality engineering to his current leadership in facility management, Eric reflects on the lessons he’s learned across his career.

He also opens up about his commitment to giving back, from volunteering in his synagogue to leading educational tours for students—proving that great leadership extends far beyond the shop floor.

Takeaways:

• Implement the Five S’s: Use the Five S methodology—Sort, Straighten, Sweep, Standardize, and Sustain—to organize and maintain efficient workspaces. Many companies also add a sixth 'S' for Safety, reinforcing a clean and secure environment.
• Introduce Maintenance Action Forms (MAFs): Establish a system to document, track, and prioritize maintenance issues. Rank problems by urgency—from "as soon as possible" to "needs further discussion"—to ensure clear communication and prompt resolution.
• Foster a Safety Culture: Create a safety committee to conduct monthly walkthroughs and identify potential hazards. Encourage the reporting of near-misses and safety concerns, and include practices like foreign object debris (FOD) checks to enhance workplace safety.
• Conduct 'Quote-to-Cash' Tours: Offer tours that showcase the full workflow—from quoting to cash collection—to educate employees and stakeholders. These tours highlight the facilities team’s impact and improve cross-functional understanding.
• Use Shadow Trays for Tools: Implement shadow trays to ensure all tools are accounted for daily. This reduces the risk of lost tools becoming safety hazards and supports overall workspace organization aligned with 5S principles.
• Promote a Culture of Safety and Care: Cultivate an environment where employees take ownership of safety and operational excellence. Communicate safety priorities regularly, encourage open reporting, and celebrate small wins to maintain motivation.
• Schedule Routine Management Walkthroughs: Have management conduct regular walkthroughs to spot inefficiencies or safety concerns. Whether informal (with a notepad) or structured (with scoring systems), these check-ins promote accountability, engagement, and continuous improvement.

Quote of the Show:

• “ A small success, well publicized or seeing something done well that can be promoted for other people to see. That can go a long way with getting other people on board and realizing they could be hopeful too.”

Links:

• Connect with Eric: 
  • (860) 970-7580
  • https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-schneider-2b38a1b8/ 
• Company Website: https://www.enjetaero.com/ 

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb 
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 
• YouTube: https://youtu.be/mIduR7MogF0 
• Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com 

Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

Host Jay Culbert welcomes back previous guests Matt Twerdy and Joe Gilliland for a deeper dive into Environmental Health and Safety (EHS).

Matt Twerdy, Director of Environment Health and Safety at Collins Aerospace, and Joe Gilliland, Senior Director of Health, Safety, and Environment US at Sanofi, share their expertise on EHS management systems, human and organizational performance (HOP), and the concept of safety clutter. They emphasize the importance of humble leadership, effective communication, and collaboration in building simple yet resilient safety systems.

The conversation highlights the value of empowering employees, fostering a blame-free culture, and leveraging AI to predict and mitigate risks. The guests also explore how these principles apply across industries and the critical role of psychological safety in creating a high-functioning, secure workplace.

This episode reinforces the mission to protect workers and cultivate a safety-first culture in all operations.

Takeaways:

• Collaborate with Workers Closest to the Work – Involve employees directly engaged in daily operations to better understand challenges and develop practical safety solutions.
• Lead with Humility – Foster a culture where leaders value input from all levels, ensuring employees feel respected and heard.
• Eliminate Safety Clutter – Simplify procedures by removing unnecessary documentation and focusing on critical safety aspects to keep workers engaged.
• Implement Clear, Simple Procedures – Use short, straightforward checklists and guidelines to reduce errors and enhance safety, especially in emergencies.
• Encourage Leadership Engagement and Open Conversations – Regularly interact with employees through gemba walks and discussions to uncover risks and improve processes.
• Empower Employees to Take the Lead – Promote a leader-leader culture where workers are encouraged to make decisions, suggest improvements, and stop unsafe activities.
• Prioritize Psychological Safety – Create a work environment where employees can voice concerns without fear of blame, fostering trust and organizational excellence.

Links:

• Matt Twerdy 
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-twerdy-mba-csp-chmm-9661132a/ 
  • Website: https://www.collinsaerospace.com/ 
• Joe Gilliland 
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-gilliland-544b1611/ 
  • Website: https://www.sanofi.com/en 

Shoutouts: 

• “Turn the Ship Around” by David Marquet: https://davidmarquet.com/turn-the-ship-around-book/ 
• PreAccident Investigation Podcast: https://preaccidentpodcast.podbean.com/ 
• VPP Conference: https://vppregion1.com/2025-safety-health-conference-exhibition/
• VPP Speakers: https://vppregion1.com/speakers-presenters-guide/

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb 
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 
• YouTube: https://youtu.be/OKyOmVGLCPM
• Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com 

Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

How does transparency and teamwork drive success in facility management? 

Derek Earp, Facilities Manager at UG2, talks about the power of open communication, teamwork, and leadership. Derek shares strategies like an open-door policy and group texts, offering real-world examples of collaboration leading to success. He also discusses his transition from engineering to management, the importance of safety protocols, and bridging the gap between IT and operational technology in building management. Plus, Derek reflects on his transformative experience at Mass Maritime Academy. 

Takeaways:

• Maintain Open Communication: Foster an open-door policy where team members feel comfortable discussing anything at any time, even after hours. This builds trust and ensures a steady communication flow.
• Emphasize Teamwork: Make teamwork a core pillar of the organization. Encouraging a team mentality leads to more effective collaboration and goal achievement.
• Lead by Example: Model the behaviors and attitudes you expect from your team. Leading by example can help re-engage even the most independent or disengaged employees.
• Implement Daily Standup Meetings: Hold short daily meetings to keep the team aligned and focused. This promotes better communication and strengthens team cohesion.
• Prioritize Safety: Integrate safety discussions into regular meetings and ensure all team members understand protocols. A strong safety culture helps prevent accidents and promotes well-being.
• Leverage Technology: Use tools like group texts and CMMS systems to streamline communication and efficiently manage building operations.
• Encourage Continuous Improvement: Foster a growth mindset by seeking new skills and refining processes. Learning from peers and researching equipment can drive ongoing improvement.

Quote of the Show:

• “If you make a mistake, own up to it, face it head-on, apologize, learn from it, and move forward.”

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derekearp/ 
• Website: https://ug2.com/ 

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb 
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 
• YouTube: https://youtu.be/RvISY81CMUQ
• Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com 

Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

How can hands-on leadership and a passion for energy efficiency reshape the future of facilities management?

Rob Cox, the Director of Facilities and Capital Improvements at Roach Bros Supermarkets emphasizes the importance of being both mentally and physically present in the workplace, sharing his hands-on approach to facility management. He reflects on his journey from working in food service at Fenway Park to overseeing 20 grocery stores, offering valuable insights into fostering a positive working culture. Rob also discusses the role of asset tagging, CMS systems, and his deep passion for energy efficiency. He also touches on Roach Bros' recent award for energy efficiency and highlights the challenges and successes of their remodeling projects.

Takeaways:

• Field Presence is Crucial: Being physically present on-site—whether in stores, construction sites, or other venues—helps catch mistakes, address issues, and ensure safety. A hands-on approach outperforms managing solely from behind a desk.
• Know Your Audience: Understanding your audience is key. Tailor your message to the level of detail needed—providing technical updates for team members and high-level summaries for CEOs.
• Energy Initiatives: Energy-saving projects, like adding doors to open-air cases and using heat pumps, recently earned recognition as a Climate Leader by Mass Save in 2024, highlighting commitment to sustainability.
• Technology in Store Management: Implementing a mobile app for logging work orders and managing assets improved efficiency for store staff. This digital transformation streamlined operations and enabled quick, accurate information capture.
• Unconventional Career Path: A career in facilities management can come from diverse backgrounds. Transferring skills from fields like criminal justice or psychology can lead to success in entirely different industries.
• Commitment to Continuous Improvement: A focus on continuous improvement, from asset tagging and updating user-friendly systems to emphasizing safety, ensures operational excellence and long-term success.

Quote of the Show:

•  “You’ve got to be on-site, be present, ask questions, and really show up.” 

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robjcox/ 
• Website: https://www.rochebros.com/ 

Shoutouts: 

• Andy Chang: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andychang99/ 
• Kevin Tang: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-r-tang/ 

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb 
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 
• YouTube: https://youtu.be/z--htOE2ibg
• Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com 

Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

How can embracing discomfort lead to both personal growth and meaningful change within an organization?

David D’Amore, Director of Facility Operations at AstraZeneca emphasizes the importance of discomfort in growth and shares his philosophy and experiences in becoming a successful facility manager. 

The discussion delves into David's five pillars for personal and organizational success, focusing on avoiding scattered efforts and maintaining clear goals. David highlights the value of robust change management processes and the significance of collaboration over working in silos. He also narrates his journey in transitioning to an Integrated Facility Management (IFM) model, including learning about financial management and understanding intangible risks.

Takeaways:

• Embrace Discomfort for Growth: David emphasized the importance of stepping outside your comfort zone by taking on new, challenging tasks to experience growth in any role.
• Engage in Cross-functional Collaboration: Avoid silos by encouraging regular communication and collaboration across different departments and teams to enhance problem-solving and innovation.
• Align Personal and Organizational Goals: Understand both your company’s global and departmental goals, and align your personal objectives to contribute effectively to the overall mission.
• Manage Risks Proactively: Identify potential risks early in your projects and work processes, and develop strategies to mitigate them. This includes understanding the impact of your performance on your organization’s goals and reputation.
• Set and Communicate Clear Goals: Establish clear, measurable goals for yourself and your team, ensuring they are aligned with broader organizational objectives to create a sense of purpose and direction.
• Invest in Continuous Learning: Seek out regular learning opportunities, such as books, courses, or certifications, to stay updated and improve your skill set. David recommended resources like Essentials of Finance and Accounting for Non-Financial Managers by Edward Fields.
• Highlight the Value of Tasks: Ensure everyone understands the importance of the tasks they are assigned and how they contribute to the bigger picture, which can boost motivation and reduce burnout.

Quote of the Show:

•  “ You are not truly experiencing growth unless you're uncomfortable.”

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-damore-2262474/ 
• Website: https://www.astrazeneca.com/ 

Shoutouts: 

• LinkedIn Learning: https://learning.linkedin.com/ 
•  Coursera: https://www.coursera.org/ 
• BOMA: https://www.gbreb.com/BOMA 

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb 
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 
• YouTube: https://youtu.be/qfRoMjrV0ro 
• Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com 

Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

What key strategies can facilities managers adopt to enhance service delivery, improve communication, and build effective maintenance programs?

John Boucher, the Director of Facilities Planning and Management at Harvard Art Museums shares valuable insights from his extensive career in facilities management, emphasizing the importance of viewing it as a service industry. He discusses the significance of understanding customer needs, maintaining proactive programs, and ensuring prompt communication. John also reflects on his personal journey from being a Navy electrician to a senior facilities manager, and how Harvard's educational benefits contributed to his career advancement. He also discusses the importance of treating people like people and having genuine interactions to build relationships.

Takeaways:

• Glean insights from the service industry: Facilities management is similar to the service industry. It's about anticipating and meeting customer needs, much like asking "Do you want fries with that?" John Boucher emphasized adopting this mindset to better serve facility users.
• Maintain a clean and welcoming environment: Ensure facilities are clean, welcoming, and comfortable. Recognize that different users have unique needs, and it’s essential to address those individual requirements.
• Proactively meet users' needs: Actively engage with users to understand how they interact with the facility. Regularly seek feedback and be prepared to adjust operations to better serve their needs.
• Prioritize responsive communication: Respond to emails, calls, and inquiries promptly, even if you don’t have a final answer. Acknowledge the query and commit to finding the information. This reduces complaints and enhances communication.
• Establish comprehensive PM programs: Set up Preventive Maintenance (PM) programs to routinely maintain and inspect equipment. Use Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) to track PM and Corrective Maintenance (CM) tasks, aiming to resolve issues before they arise.
• Enhance staff training: Provide continuous training for maintenance staff to ensure proper inspection and upkeep of equipment. Regularly update training sessions based on recurring issues identified through maintenance records.
• Engage with staff on a human level: Develop a management style that fosters frequent engagement with staff. Simple actions like greeting employees and checking in on their well-being can significantly boost morale and improve the work environment.

Quote of the Show:

•  “I like to tell people that you need to learn how to say, 'Do you want fries with that?' because it's the same idea. You need to anticipate your customer's needs, and sell them on what will make their life better."

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-boucher-9001113/  
• Company website: https://harvardartmuseums.org/  
• Email: [email protected] 

Shoutouts: 

• Harvard Extension Program: https://extension.harvard.edu/ 
• Harvard Fire Safety Group 

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb 
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 
• YouTube: https://youtu.be/j_pxrNmTPEI 
• Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com 

Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

Joe Gilliland, Senior Director of Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) at Sanofi, discusses the importance of volunteerism and community involvement. With over 20 years of experience, Joe emphasizes the value of integrating HSE with facilities and operations to enhance workplace safety and productivity. He recounts a tragic safety incident early in his career that recalibrated his focus on preventing accidents and learning from root cause analysis. 

Joe shares insights on fire safety systems, particularly advocating for simpler, maintenance-friendly solutions. He also touches on his volunteer work, involvement in community organizations, and personal interests in outdoor activities and firefighting. The episode underscores the significance of collaboration, continuous learning, and focusing on high-risk, low-occurrence safety measures.

Takeaways:

• 
  Focus on Volunteerism and Giving Back: Volunteering plays a vital role in strengthening community ties and fostering engagement. With over 20 years of experience as a volunteer and career fireman, the impact of volunteerism in building community support and involvement is clear.
• Simpler Systems are Better: When it comes to safety and fire suppression systems, simplicity is key. Complex systems that require extensive maintenance are less reliable, whereas basic, low-maintenance systems like heat and smoke detectors tend to be more effective and practical.
• Relentless Root Cause Analysis: A thorough and persistent approach to root cause analysis is essential for safety. Rather than assigning blame to individuals after an incident, it’s important to focus on uncovering contributing factors and addressing systemic issues. This ensures that corrective actions are targeted and prevent future occurrences.
• Integrate Safety with Facilities and Quality: A holistic approach to workplace safety involves integrating safety, facilities management, and quality control into unified processes. This reduces redundancy and allows managers to address multiple aspects of safety and quality more efficiently in fewer, more effective walkthroughs.
• Focus on High-Risk, Low-Occurrence Tasks: Prioritizing high-risk, low-occurrence tasks is crucial for maintaining safety. By applying the “high-risk, low-occurrence” concept from the fire service, critical safety elements are consistently checked and maintained, reducing the likelihood of significant safety issues.
• Importance of Maintaining Relationships with Local Authorities: Strong relationships with local fire departments, police, and municipal authorities can be a major asset in facilities management. These relationships help streamline operations, especially when permits or changes are required, and ensure a more coordinated response in emergency situations.
• Prioritize Critical Maintenance: In times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s crucial to prioritize essential maintenance tasks while delaying less critical ones. Despite workforce challenges, focusing on maintaining key operations ensured that vital areas received the attention they needed during a particularly challenging time.

Quote of the Show:

•  “It’s better to open doors than to close them.” 

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-gilliland-544b1611/ 
• Website: https://www.sanofi.com/en 

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb 
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 
• YouTube: https://youtu.be/-i-XGOe4xw8
• Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com 

Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

Looking for expert insights on commercial moving? 

Sam Graves Jr., co-owner of ABC Moving Services, Inc. with nearly 25 years of experience in the industry, shares valuable knowledge on the importance of specialization and partnering with other service providers to meet client needs. He discusses managing complex moves like relocating sensitive lab equipment and handling logistics in tight urban spaces. Sam emphasizes the need for site visits, honest communication, and thorough planning to ensure success. The conversation also delves into how client relationships have evolved over the years and the role technology plays in modern business operations. 

Takeaways:

• Identify Core Competencies: Focus on what you know and excel at, offering quality service in your areas of expertise.
• Seek Partnerships: Collaborate with firms outside your industry that offer complementary services to meet client demands beyond your core capabilities.
• Conduct Thorough Site Reviews: Regular site visits and comprehensive reviews help avoid surprises and ensure all logistics are covered.
• Be Honest and Transparent: Build trust by being upfront with clients when you can't fulfill a request; honesty can lead to future opportunities.
• Build Strong Relationships: Cultivate strong, communicative relationships with project management firms to ensure successful project execution.
• Communicate Clearly: Keep clear and effective communication with clients and stakeholders to prevent misunderstandings and errors.
• Leverage Expertise: Use specialized partners for specific tasks (e.g., moving art, handling lab equipment) to reduce errors and ensure expert handling.

Quote of the Show:

•  “You can’t be everything to everyone. You have to stick with what you know and form partnerships with people that provide alternative services that your clients are looking for.”

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-graves-422473b/ 
• Website: https://abcmoving.biz/ 
• Email: [email protected] 
• Phone Number: (617) 694-0692

Shoutouts: 

•  Bill Murphy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-murphy-5b254695/ 

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb 
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 
• YouTube: https://youtu.be/isn3T3MYeEw 
• Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com 

Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

In honor of the 50th episode of Facility Rockstars, host Jay Culbert welcomes celebrity guest Denny Corby—renowned magician, entertainer, and keynote speaker.

Denny takes us on his inspiring journey, starting from his roots in Scranton, PA, where his family owned the iconic paper supply company featured in The Office. He shares how his path led him to become a successful entertainer, with memorable performances for major companies like Comcast and Tyson Foods, as well as appearances on top cable networks.

The episode also touches on Denny's transition from the family business into full-time entertainment, and how the challenges of the pandemic led him to innovate with virtual shows. He reflects on his first meeting with the host at a Jack Daly sales seminar in 2014, and the two dive into the lessons Denny has learned along the way.

Denny also discusses his popular podcast, Private Club Radio, which highlights stories from the private golf and country club industry, and he even performs a live magic trick during the interview.

Finally, Denny shares behind-the-scenes insights into his appearances on TV shows like Penn & Teller: Fool Us and The Huckabee Show.

This episode is filled with inspiring stories, valuable lessons on creativity and commitment, and of course—magic!

Takeaways:

• Commit First, Figure the Rest Out Later: Denny emphasizes the importance of taking bold steps without having all the answers initially. This can lead to unexpected opportunities and solutions.
• Limitations Force Creativity: Denny's approach during the pandemic, where he pivoted to virtual shows, highlights how constraints can push you to innovate and find new ways to succeed.
• Connecting People is Key: Building meaningful relationships and connections can open doors to new opportunities. Denny uses his podcast to connect with club managers and other professionals, which enhances his network and business prospects.
• Being Proactive in Reaching Out: Don't wait for opportunities to come to you. Denny actively reached out to TV channels and potential clients, demonstrating the importance of taking initiative.
• Building Relationships Matters: Denny's success is largely due to the relationships he has nurtured over time. Whether it’s with family, club managers, or corporate clients, these relationships provide a strong foundation for his career.
• Customizing Your Approach: When pitching, Denny personalized his approach by sending a box of stress balls to a potential client with a humorous note. Tailoring your approach to the recipient can make a lasting impression and set you apart from the competition.
• Adapting to Challenges: When the pandemic hit, Denny was quick to adapt by offering virtual shows. Being flexible and ready to pivot in the face of adversity can help sustain and even grow your business in difficult times.

Quote of the Show:

•  “Commit first, figure the rest out later. And limitations force creativity.” 

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dennycorby/ 
• Personal Website: https://www.dennycorby.com/ 
• Private Club Radio Podcast: https://www.privateclubradio.com/ 

Shoutouts: 

• Verne Harnish: https://www.linkedin.com/in/verneharnish/ 
• Jesse Itzler: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jesse-itzler/ 
  • Living with a Seal: https://a.co/d/gPJjqUp 
• David Goggins: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-goggins-6bab1a12/ 
• Eric Partaker: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-partaker-5560b92/ 
• Alfredo C. Hildebrandt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alfredocandelahildebrandt/ 
• Paul Dank: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pauldank/ 
• Denny Corby Sizzle Reel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1xr9Vrv1Kd4 
• Magic with Polaroids - Denny Corby on The Huckabee Show: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u9Y2O70rJpY 

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb 
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 
• YouTube: https://youtu.be/M1NstOCfQ9g
• Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com 

Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

In this episode of Facility Rockstars, host Jay Culbert revisits guest Diego Ariza, a Navy Veteran and Army Reserve who leverages his military experience in his role as a facilities manager. Diego discusses recruiting challenges, the integration of AI in the hiring process, and a significant preventative maintenance incident. 

He highlights the importance of strong processes, flexibility, and team empowerment. Diego's experience underscores the value of military discipline and preparedness in civilian industries. The episode also touches upon the commitment to veteran support, with both Diego and Jay preparing to participate in a veterans' fundraising event.

Takeaways:

• Recognize Workforce Evolution: Understand that the workforce today is very different from a decade ago. Adapt your strategies to meet modern expectations and find innovative solutions for recruiting and retention challenges.
• Embrace Flexibility: Be prepared to revise processes and make adjustments as needed. Flexibility is key to overcoming unexpected obstacles and achieving long-term success.
• Establish Strong Processes, But Prepare for Failures: While having solid processes is crucial, it's important to recognize that they can sometimes fail. Use these moments as opportunities to reflect, learn, and improve your methods.
• Invest in Consistent Training: Continuous training and preparation are essential. Regular practice ensures that your team can handle emergencies effectively, even if the actual scenarios differ from training simulations.
• Empower Through Delegation: Delegate responsibilities and trust your team to execute them without micromanaging. Empowering your employees fosters a sense of ownership and accountability.
• Prioritize Communication in Account Management: Effective communication during crises is critical. Over-communicate steps and timelines with all stakeholders to manage expectations and maintain trust.
• Prepare for Succession: Train someone to take over your responsibilities in your absence. Whether due to personal reasons or emergencies, having a well-prepared second-in-command ensures continuity and stability.

Quote of the Show:

• “When you invest in enhancing your leadership skills, empower your team, delegate tasks, and foster trust among your people, you cultivate belief in both yourself and your company.”

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dareizam 
• Personal Website: https://areizadiego.wordpress.com/ 
• ISS Website: https://www.issworld.com/en 
• US Army Website: https://www.army.mil 

Shoutouts: 

• SWAM Website: https://www.swam.org/events  
• It’s Your Ship by Captain D. Michael Abrashoff: https://www.amazon.com/Its-Your-Ship-Management-Anniversary

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb 
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 
• YouTube: https://youtu.be/BqTbedK4cyY
• Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com 

Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com